Marvellous Ben Obasi is a 300 level student at Nnamdi Azikwe University, Awka. She’s also student entrepreneur who leverages digital skills to help business owners, brand owners and digital companies grows their brand on social media. In this exclusive interview with our correspondent, Mercy Ezeokonkwo, she shares how learning from industry experts has placed her on a great pedestal and how it has helped her remain relevant in the creative industry. Excerpts:
Who is Obasi Ben Marvellous?
I am a 300 level English student of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka. I hail from Awgu local government area, Enugu state. I am the second child of my parents (Mr & Mrs Obasi). As a student entrepreneur, I help small businesses, brand owners and digital companies amplify their brand voices, target the right audience, and grow their brands on social media by creating compelling content for them. I also dedicate my time, knowledge, and experience to help struggling writers and branders in the industry become better and get to the level they desire to be.
How do you keep up to date in your field?
The giants in the industry know the game better than you do. Their pawns move faster on the chessboard and in order to checkmate you need to pluck their strategies. 90 percent of the time, it is almost impossible to come in contact with these phenomenal leaders but in order to stay informed I strive for opportunities to get at least virtual if not direct contact with them. The plan is simple. I read their books, I feed from their timelines, I pay for their training and I attend their conferences. When I do, I never forget to network with peers, build friendships and have impactful conversations about my industry. That’s how I get updated on what stays and leaves the industry daily!
What are the lessons from your experience in the digital creative industry?
What we do in my industry is hard work. Whoever comes into the system must adapt to attain greatness. At every stage, mentorship is vital. Learning is important but taking action is more important. I never underestimate the power of connection. Lastly, consistency rules the industry.
To anyone having a hard time going after their passion, what would you advise?
You have to start first. Confused or clarified, take those baby steps. We all learnt in the process, you will also.
How have you been able to maintain relevance?
In the industry, everyone thinks life is linear, we all just do as our ancestors have done. Everyone simply wants to play safe or copy safe. I love to play differently and when I do, netizens get amazed. Truth is, people stick with you when you are valuable to them. I do the different things, they learn, they replicate and return for more.
I have mastered the art of pulling the crowd by daring to be different.
What advice do you have for young people who seek to become relevant?
Set realistic goals. Don’t set goals that you know you can’t achieve. Work towards them- set strategies on how you can achieve these goals. Set exceptional standards.
Show your expertise- If you want people to know you and what you do, don’t hide, come online and show what you do.
